HEALTH & SAFETY POLICY
DIRECTOR RESPONSIBLE FOR HEALTH & SAFETY
TRAINING OFFICER & SAFETY ADVISOR
FOREMAN ON SITE DELEGATION AND SAFE METHOD OF WORK
& SURVEYING SITE PRIOR TO WORK
& EQUIPMENT CHECKS
OPERATIVE LABOUR
ALL PERSONS OTHER THAN EMPLOYEES
SAFETY CHART
INTERCLEAN
52 WALTON STREET
LEICESTER
LE3 0DX
POLICY FOR HEALTH & SAFETY AT WORK
It is the policy of this Company to give the greatest importance
to the Health and Safety of its employees. The Company
considers this duty to be a management responsibility equal to
that of any other function.
The Company recognises and accepts responsibility as an
employer for providing a safe and healthy work place and
working environment for all employees in premises under its
control.
It is also the Company's policy to co-operate with customers or
prospective customers with the object of providing for our
employees similar facilities on premises not under our control.
Moreover, the Company recognises and accepts its obligations to
ensure that other parties are not adversely affected by its
activities.
The Company will take all steps, so far as is reasonably practical
to meet its Health and Safety responsibilities, paying particular
attention to the provision and maintenance of:
(a)
Safe plant, equipment and system of work
(b)
Safe arrangements for the use, handling, storage,
transporting of equipment and materials.
(c)
Sufficient information, instructions, training, and
supervision to enable all employees to avoid hazards and
contribute positively to their own safety and health at
work.
(d)
A safe place of work and access to it.
(e)
A healthy working environment.
A safety policy is unlikely to be successful unless it actively
involves the people who work in the Company. The Company
will, therefore seek to ensure effective communication and
consultation via the various Safety Committees and the safety
representatives that have been set up.
It is equally the duty of every employee to work in accordance
with the Company Safety Policy. To this end each employee
must accept and carry out his/her responsibilities to:
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
Act with due care to prevent injury to themselves and
others.
Report all accidents, damage to equipment and potential
hazards.
Follow the agreed working procedures, including the
correct use of safety equipment and protective clothing.
It will be the duty of any cleaner who is required to
operate equipment with which they are unfamiliar to
make this fact known to their supervisor so that training
can be given.
The Company Safety Policy will be reviewed as appropriate and
any revisions will be brought to the notice of all employees.
ALL EMPLOYEES TO SIGN BELOW TO CONFIRM RECEIPT OF THIS
HEALTH AND SAFETY DOCUMENT.
Signed………………………………………..
Date…………………………………
INDIVIDUAL RESPONSIBILITY
14.
FOREMAN/LEADING HAND
15.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
This job exists to control the activities of a window
cleaning crew of any number above one.
Collects batches of workbills from the office, organises the
programme of work.
On completion of each job, make certain that the
signature of the customer's designated representative is
obtained either by the window cleaner or by himself.
Completes the wages summary sheets and submits to the
office, together with the completed workbills.
Where work is allowed to be booked off, ensures that this
is done within Company guidelines, and that the work is
completed without delay.
Allocate work in accordance with the individual skills of
his crew members.
Monitors the training needs of his men and recommends
the appropriate training to his branch management.
Ensures that vehicle(s) allocated to his crew are kept
clean and tidy, and are regularly serviced.
Report to management any reprimands, unauthorised
absence, poor timekeeping, unsatisfactory performance,
or any other disciplinary offence.
Familiarise himself with the Company's Health and Safety
Policy and Working Instructions, and ensures that those
under his control are aware of their responsibilities in this
respect.
Ensure that new employees and especially "tumbler" are
strictly supervised and trained before they are allowed to
work above ground level, and that methods of working
are strictly adhered to at all times, by everyone.
Ensures that any protective clothing and any safety
apparatus are used as required for the job in hand.
Inspect all cradle and Bosun's Chair rigging before
commencing work each day. Ensure that it is properly set
up and safe to use, and fill in and sign the appropriate
form.
Reports any accidents and dangerous occurrence in his
work area and co-operates with anyone empowered to
carry out an investigation.
Carry out such other duties as may from time to time be
allocated to the Leading Hand/Foreman.
OPERATIVE
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
Understand the Company Health and Safety Policy and
observe it at all times.
Be familiar with Company and customers' rules and follow
them at all times.
Read and fully understand the contents of the Company's
Safety Handbook set out in Part 2.
Avoid improvising or taking short cuts which might
involve unnecessary risks.
Understand and follow all safety instructions given, carry
out any special instructions and methods of working
stated on workbill and use safety equipment provided.
Watch out for and report any temporary or permanent
alterations to the premises or cleaning specifications since
the last visit which may affect safe access or method of
working.
If in the operative's opinion it appears unsafe to carry out
the allotted work for any reason at all, report back to
enable the situation to be investigated.
Warn new employees of any known hazards.
Only carry out work when all the correct and necessary
equipment is available to work safely and efficiently.
Only use plant and machinery for which proper instruction
and training has been given.
Report all damage to, and defects in, plant or machinery.
Report any defect to customers' premises, or to
permanent equipment provided by them which prevents
the work from being carried out safely and efficiently.
13.
14.
15.
16.
Where regulations, Company rules or manufacturers'
instructions require it, follow special precautions and wear
protective clothing.
Report all accidents and dangerous occurrences and give
full co-operation to anyone carrying out investigations.
Set a good personal example.
Attend safety meetings as required.
ALL EMPLOYEES
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
Act at all times with due care for the health and safety of
themselves, other workers and the general public.
Understand and observe the provisions of the Health and
Safety at Work Act and Company rules and instructions.
Co-operate with the Company as far as is necessary to
enable the provisions of the Act to be carried out.
Do not interfere with or misuse anything provided in the
interest of health, safety and welfare.
Notify their immediate superior of any situation
considered to be a hazard to themselves or others.
Correctly use and safety equipment or protective clothing
as instructed.
Be aware of risks to their health which may arise from
processes in which they are involved.
Do not use any equipment, machinery or substance
without proper training and instruction.
Report all accidents or dangerous occurrences to their
immediate superior.
Know what to do in the event of fire on the customer's
premises in which they are working.
Make suggestions to improve procedures for making the
Company's health and safety performances more
effective.
Set a good personal example.
EQUAL OPORTUNITY POLICY
It is the policy of this Company that all persons shall have equal
opportunity for employment and advancement in the Company
on the basis of their ability, qualifications and fitness for work.
There shall be no discrimination against any person in
recruitment, promotion or in any other way, on the grounds of
religious affiliations, colour, sex, race, ethnic or national origin.
WINDOW CLEANING SAFETY HANDBOOK
'COME CLEAN WITH SAFETY'
Introduction
This Safety Handbook has been issued for information and
guidance to operatives and management connected with the
Window Cleaning operations of Interclean.
GENERAL ADVICE
Your safety depends on making a habit of checking the following:
(a)
The object is for all to contribute to the prevention of accidents
to personnel and property, and to ensure the safety of all
persons coming within the scope of Interclean's Window Cleaning
operation.
(b)
It is essential that the principles set out in this handbook be
faithfully applied if accidents, and the resultant suffering and loss
are to be avoided.
(d)
Please do not view this book as unnecessary or an insult
to your intelligence. Just because you may have been a
window cleaner for many years, everyone can learn something
new every day.
Think ahead. Think preventative safety, not curative safety.
It's no good being wise after the event!
(c)
(e)
(f)
(g)
(h)
Adhere to the method of work given on the workbill,
short-cuts can cause accidents.
Check every window before starting to clean it.
Alterations may have been carried out since your last
visit.
Look at sash lines or balances to see that they are sound
and not liable to break whilst cleaning.
Ensure that the window operates correctly and is not
liable to jam while you are working outside.
Watch out for special locks which operate when the
window is shut. Never close the window fully when
outside and by doing so lock yourself out. Use a tightly
folded swab to stop the window from closing completely.
Never stand on, or rest ladders against window flower
boxes. Eventually these rot if made of wood.
It is in your own interest that you avoid wearing rings
whilst you are working. Serious injuries have been
caused (even to the complete loss of a finger in some
cases). Remember, a window catch or fanlight stay can
catch under a ring, or with years of wear a ring wears thin
and eventually breaks and you at least have a badly torn
finger so you will not be able to work.
It is in your own interest and that of others that you do
not take in alcoholic drink during or immediately prior to
working. Don't do it. You are no good to your family if
you are in hospital or worse.
FRAGILE ROOFS
CLEANING WINDOWS
No man may pass over or work on any fragile roof without
proper scaling apparatus or roof boards. If these are not
available on site, the work MUST NOT be started and contact
must be made with the office for the necessary equipment and
proper instructions.
Clean windows from inside wherever practicable and wear your
personal safety belt, harness and line. Always attach your safety
line to the Safety Eyebolts if provided, and ensure that the
ferrule on the Karabiner is in the locked position.
There is no truth in the idea that it is safe to walk along the line
of fixing bolts. It is in fact a dangerous practice and gives a false
sense of security.
Never pass from one window to another on the outside of a
building or walk along a cornice or other projection. The
Company is not held responsible for any accident which may
occur whilst doing so.
Do not forget that you need a minimum of 2 boards when
moving along a roof. One to stand on whilst moving the other.
Never use odd pieces of wood that may be handy.
TREAD WARILY
MAKESHIFTS CAUSE ACCIDENTS
Remember sill pads are available for polished sills and ledges.
A secure handhold and foothold is essential to your safety. DO
NOT rely on insecure fittings, particularly sash pull handles. The
danger of them breaking or coming away, due to their working
loose or to rust or rot, is a very serious one. You cannot always
tell by their appearance whether they are secure or not. DON'T
HOLD ON TO THEM AT ALL!
Contrary to what you may think, sitting on the outside sills is no
safer than standing on them, unless there is a provision to attach
your safety harness to properly installed safety eyebolts. This is
particularly important when cleaning sash windows.
Hinged windows are a hidden danger, as the hinges are not
deigned to take a man's weight. Hold on to a fixed point on the
structure. Never stand on or lean the ladder against reflectors.
1.
2.
3.
Broken, glazed, cracked, narrow or sloping sills are not
good footholds, and you must avoid using them. If in
doubt do not clean. REPORT TO YOUR OFFICE.
Where benches, desks, etc are placed so that access is
difficult or dangerous, report it to the office or your
representative, who will see the client.
If in your opinion, it appears unsafe to clean a window for
any reason at all, do not clean it. REPORT IT TO THE
OFFICE OR YOUR REPRESENTATIVE, who will see the
client.
If you suffer injury, however slight, obtain proper medical
treatment. REPORT ANY ACCIDENT TO YOUR OFFICE, obtaining
names and addresses of witnesses. Make sure that it is entered
in the Accident Book.
Do not attempt to clean cracked or broken glass. Leave it and
report to your office and client.
A 'SHINER'S JOB' involves some hazards. Do not let familiarity
breed contempt. Pay attention to what you are doing ALL THE
TIME. Any suggestions by employees for promoting safety will
receive careful consideration.
Always carry a copy of these Guidance Notes and study them
frequently. If you lose this book - ask for another at the office.
DON'T TAKE CHANCES
Use of Ladders
LADDERS
These cause the greatest number of accidents. The following
rules will make for safer working. Remember, there are at least
30 different ways that accidents can happen using a ladder
incorrectly.
Check your ladder frequently and before use each day.
WATCH OUT FOR
RUBBER FEET
Loose or defective
THE RUNGS
Particularly at the point
where the enter the stiles
THE STILES
For warping, cracking or
splintering.
THE METAL FITTINGS
For damage, loose or missing
bolts or screws.
NEVER USE A LADDER WITH A BENT OR BROKEN RUNG!
Do not use parts from different ladders. Check that the numbers
marked on each section match.
Report any defects immediately. Fix a label to the ladder stating
that it must not be used and why. Return it to the stores and
get a replacement.
Always use a ladder THE RIGHT length. It must extend at least
1.1M(3ft 6in), 4 rungs, above the highest rung from which you
will be standing and still leave a good overlap on a 2 or 3 part
ladder.
Closed Length
Up to 4.26M (14ft)
4.5-5.1M (15-17ft)
5.4-6.1M (18-20ft)
6.4-7M (21-23ft)
7.3-8M (24-26ft)
Minimum Overlap
0.6M (2ft) 3 rungs
0.77M (2ft 6in) 3 rungs
1M (3ft) 4 rungs
1.1M (3ft 6in) 4 rungs
1.25M (4ft) 5 rungs
When loading ladders on a vehicle, make sure that the load is
evenly distributed and not loaded more on one side than the
other.
Ensure that the load is securely lashed to the roof rack and that
the rack itself is secure. DO NOT load long ladders on top of ten
steps or small two parts, the longest ladders should be loaded
first. Doing this helps the stability of the load.
NEVER use a single section of a pointed ladder on its own, other
than a ten step. Always select the correct length ladder for the
job.
Always use a wired ladder the right way round with the wire
underneath.
Stand the ladder on a firm even base. Set it at the correct
angle. A good guide is 1M (3ft) out by every 4M (12ft) up, e.g. if
the ladder rests at 6M (20ft) the foot should be 1.5M (5ft) away
at the base.
Always face the ladder when ascending or descending. Ensure
that there is no possibility of the ladder slipping. If necessary
lash it or have someone footing it.
When spanning roof trusses on the inside of buildings, always
use a board of the 'Youngmans' pattern and ensure that a
handrail is in position.
Do not forget to use your damp swab to stand the ladder on
when floors are wet or highly polished.
When carrying ladders on a roof rack mark any rear overhang
irrespective of length up to a maximum of 10 feet i.e. 10 rungs.
Whenever possible, place the tip of a pointed ladder in a corner
so that it cannot slip sideways.
Remember, a ladder is a very quick and easy answer to an
access problem. But don’t be tempted to abuse the rules.
Watch what you are doing all the time you are using a ladder of
any kind.
Never over-reach from a ladder. Get down and move it along.
What does a minute or so matter? Never place a pointed ladder
on a flat surface. Use a spreader specially made to convert the
pointed ladder which will stabilise the top. This applies to ten
steps and the long combs or pointers.
Spreaders are available from the Safety Department for both
pointed and straight-sided ladders.
Remember, a pointed ladder is only designed to be put into a
corner or angle, not on a flat surface.
When working on ladders, ALWAYS work in the upright position
with both feet on a rung. DO NOT lean over sideways to reach
further. Get down and move the ladder.
DO NOT work on a ladder in a one-footed way with one foot on
an adjacent sill or projection.
Do not 'drop' any ladder onto a roof rack or onto the ground.
Get help if it is too heavy for one person. Careless use damages
the ladder and vehicle. Slide the ladder onto the roof rack.
A ladder should never be used to bridge areas or similar gaps. It
is NOT designed for this type of work.
STORE THE LADDER WHERE IT WILL NOT DRY OUT.
SAFETY EYEBOLTS
Your safety belt/harness is your best friend. Its proper place is
on your body, not draped over the ladder, even if you are
reluctant to wear it.
The karabiner and line should be secured to an eyebolt where
one is provided. The karabiner and line should be attached to
the eyebolt and the screwed ferrule in the locked position before
getting out, and not unfastened for any reason until you are
safely back inside the building. If for any reason whatsoever you
consider your belt/harness or rope or karabiner to be unsafe,
have it checked, and if any way faulty…..
CHANGE IT!
Always check that the eyebolt is firmly in place and does not
appear to have been tampered with. If in any doubt, report your
views to your Contracts Manager who may see the customer and
ask them to produce a current test certificate for the bolts.
Current means within 4 years of the last test date. Safety
eyebolts are not always fixed in ideal positions because of
structural fixing difficulties. You must wear a full harness
supplied by the Company when cleaning buildings fitted with
eyebolts or when so directed to by your workbill.
If you discover the new eyebolt known as 'the Pushlock system',
you must report to your safety supervisor and ask for
instructions on how to use as this system is completely different
from normal eyebolt fixing.
CRADLE AND BOSUN'S CHAIR WORK
General
No man may use a cradle, bosun's chair or similar equipment
unless he is fully experienced or under training by an
experienced operator.
Do not work on any roof when thunderstorms are in the
immediate vicinity. Remember, lightning can strike there just
as easily as on a golf course.
This is particularly important when working with manual or
electrical portable gear, as this is not connected into the
building's lightning conductor system, unlike permanent
equipment.
Ensure that the chair is tied off correctly at each drop before you
attempt to sit in the chair.
PERMANENT INSTALLATIONS
The following is a guide when dealing with permanent
installations such as manual or electric trolley units and portable
jibs. It may seem silly and unnecessary, but:
1.
Wear your personal safety tope and belt/harness.
2.
Refer to manufacturers' operating and safety instructions
exhibited on the equipment together with any special
instructions supplied by the building's occupier.
3.
Attach personal safety rope to eyebolt provided on cradle
roof trolley. In the absence of this fitting, attach to any
suitable secure part of the trolley before attempting to rig
ropes or wires.
4.
Attach personal safety rope to eyebolt provided on cradle.
In the absence of this fitting, attach to cradle
suspension bar at all times whilst working in the cradle.
5.
Portable jib arms must be locked into position and the
personal safety rope attached to eyebolt provided. In the
absence of this fitting, secure personal safety rope to jib
before attempting to rig ropes or wires.
6.
Remain attached to jib whilst entering cradle or bosun's
chair, and when standing in cradle or seated in chair,
unclip personal safety rope from jib and reclip to eyebolt
provided or to cradle suspension bar.
Cradles
Ensure all bolts are tight and locked correctly. Never use string
or wire to fix the guardrail. Bolts with wing nuts are supplied.
Check they are all there before taking the cradle from the stores.
If any are missing, ask for replacements. Never leave the cradle
suspended unattended. Always lash securely to the building.
Even when left at ground level, the blocks must be secure by
lashing them to the cradle. If not secured, the blocks could
swing and hit someone and it could be you or your mate.
You must not stand on the guardrail or toeboard at any
time.
Winches and Wire Ropes
Always follow the manufacturer's instructions which are usually
on a plate fixed to the winch. Anyone using these for the first
time must have had instructions for correct operating
procedures.
Make certain that suspension wires are free from kinks or other
damage. After use, coil the wires correctly and store under
cover.
Whilst working in the cradle, NEVER attempt to clean anything
between the safety rail and the toe board or the cradle. Always
work above the safety rail in the normal way.
Tirfor Winches (Pumping Type)
These must not be used unless fitted with 'Stop Blocks' or
'Everest' safety lock devices.
Contrary to what you may think, the winch must be lubricated
with oil before use and then daily prior to commencing work.
Doing this helps the internal jaws to grip the wire more firmly
and makes the operation easier.
Winding Type Winches
Always ensure that the wire is wound onto the drum properly
when storing after use.
One man must hold the cable taught whilst a second man is
winding the drum. If this is not done correctly, the cable will not
lie evenly and it is not possible to wind all the cable onto the
drum. In addition, the cradle may drop slightly as the cable
tightens the next time the winch is used.
Electric Winches
Make certain that you are fully conversant with this type of
equipment before using it. Also be sure that you know how to
convert the machines to manual operation should the power fail
whilst working on a building face.
FINALLY
Don’t forget the Caution Boards to warn the public where
you are working.
When using chemical products other than from our own label
range, insist that you see the Data Sheet applying to that
product. When using chemicals of any sort read and take notice
of the instructions on the container.
The use of Hydrofluoric acid is strictly forbidden.
For splashes in or near the eye - wash out well with water then
get medical treatment immediately.
Barrier Creams must be applied before putting on rubber gloves,
prior to using even weak chemical solutions.
CARE OF ROPES
The ropes supplied by the Company are staple spun
polypropylene. These are 60mm 2 3/8" in circumference. When
new they have a breaking strain of over 4000kgs(4tons). This
allows a good margin for deterioration through normal wear and
tear.
Remember that polypropylene ropes are more subject to
abrasive damage than other types. Do not drag these ropes
along the ground or over parapet walls.
The majority of ropes are condemned through careless handling.
CHEMICALS
All chemicals are safe to use provided the manufacturers
instructions and the proper safety precautions are carried out.
Treat chemicals with respect and take the proper precautions.
Where special cleaning fluids, strong detergents or chemical
compounds are needed for use on exceptionally dirty jobs,
signed instructions will be issued at the discretion of the Branch
Manager or safety supervisor.
They will, where necessary, specify the protective clothing
required and this equipment must be drawn from the stores and
must be worn by the operator whilst using the chemicals.
Before using rubber gloves, roll up from the wrist to compress
the air inside the gloves to check for leaks.
If it is essential to use chemicals in conjunction with a cradle,
polypropylene ropes must be used.
When using certain types of paint stripper which specifically state
'No Smoking' you are warned against the fire risk.
Some of the chemicals are heated when drawn through a
cigarette and are converted to phosgene gas.
This can damage your lungs.
TREAT CHEMICALS WITH RESPECT!!
POWER DRIVEN PLANT
SCAFFOLDING
No mechanical plant or associated equipment may be cleaned
unless the source of power is isolated and locked off. In the case
of electrically driven plant, the fuses must be removed.
Arrangements must be made with the occupier for the issue of a
safety permit before any work is started on or near power driven
machinery and its instructions followed.
Before working from scaffolding, the following points should be
checked:
No work must be carried out in the proximity of unguarded
machinery. Pay particular attention to the situation when
working above machinery where the guards may be ineffective.
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
Arrangements must be made to ensure that it is impossible for
the machinery to be started when you are in an exposed
position.
(a)
(b)
Get permission to use scaffolding.
Check with a responsible person, i.e. Site Engineer, Clerk
of Works, that the scaffold is complete and the scaffold
register signed.
Has proper access been provided to the scaffold?
Are toeboards and guardrails in position?
Is the scaffold secured to the building to prevent collapse?
Can you work effectively from the scaffold?
Never remove scaffold ties to gain access to the work area.
Report any defects to the Site Engineer or Clerk of Works
immediately.
Overhead Travelling Crane
Mobile Scaffold Towers (Zip-Up-Staging)
The Law requires that if any person is employed to work on or
near the wheel track of an overhead travelling crane, effective
measures must be taken to prevent the crane from travelling
within 20ft of that workplace.
Before starting work on or near an overhead travelling crane,
check with a responsible person i.e. Works Engineer that steps
have been taken to isolate the power supply, thereby preventing
the crane from being inadvertently operated.
Comply with the manufacturers erection and operating
instructions. Pay particular attention to the following details:
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
A safe method of working is best achieved by the removal of the
fuses by the Works Engineer and the fuses given to the person in
charge of the cleaning operation.
This method together with the issue of a permit to work prevents
the crane from being operated without the knowledge of the
Leading Hand.
(e)
Lock all castors before climbing the tower.
Ensure outriggers are positioned correctly.
Always climb the towers by the ladders. Never climb up
or down the outside using the tubes as handholds. The
additional loading can cause them to topple over.
Never move the towers whilst persons or materials are
on the platforms.
Never place a ladder on the top of staging to gain extra
height. This could cause the staging to become unstable
and topple over.
LIFTING AND HANDLING
Ignorance of the correct procedure for lifting is often a common
cause of accidents, particularly to the back.
By keeping the back straight, the leg muscles which are better
suited to work than back muscles, have to take the load.
Remember - Lift with your legs bent and your back straight.
If the object is too heavy, ask for assistance.
MOBILE HYDRAULIC PLATFORMS
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)
(h)
Never attempt to operate this type of equipment unless
you are fully experienced or under training from an
approved operator.
Refer to and understand the manufacturers operating and
safety instructions.
Wear your personal safety rope and belt/harness whilst
working in the bucket.
Never allow the safe working load to be exceeded.
Ensure that the working platform is properly positioned,
that outriggers (where fitted) are fully extended, with sole
plates and spreaders as necessary and used to level the
platform within limits specified by the manufacturer.
Do not travel with the platform elevated unless
specifically designed to permit this.
Take care not to allow the knuckle of the boom to extend
beyond the line of cones into the flow of traffic.
When carrying out inspections of the vehicle, never go
under a raised boom unless the machine has provisions
built in to prevent the boom/platform from dropping
following a possible hydraulic failure.
THIS BOOK HAS BEEN WRITTEN FOR YOUR
GUIDANCE AND WELFARE.
IF IN DOUBT AT ANY TIME - ASK!
ASSISTANCE AND ADVICE IS ALWAYS AVAILABLE
INTERCLEAN HAS AN EXCELLENT SAFETY RECORD.
KEEP ITS GOOD NAME AND RECORD INTACT!